On the exhilarating evening of Wednesday, July 3rd, the CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, Maryland, was set ablaze with early celebrations as Justin Timberlake's 'Forget Tomorrow World Tour' took the stage. The absence of an opening act allowed a DJ to entertain the eagerly awaiting crowd with pulsating beats and captivating mixes. While the DJ's performance was filled with customary theatrics, some song selections failed to sustain the audience's enthusiasm, causing intermittent lulls in the otherwise vibrant ambiance.
Promptly at 9:00 pm, Mr. Timberlake kicked off his show, beginning with the "Memphis" interlude, which transitioned into "No Angels" from his sixth album, "Everything I Thought I Was." Justin then delighted the audience with a medley of hits from his first two solo albums, consisting of "Lovestoned," "Like I Love You," and "My Love." Backed by his impressive band, The Tennessee Kids, and with remarkable choreography, it was apparent Justin had yet to lose a step.
The subsequent performances featured "Technicolor," "Sanctified," and "Infinity Sex", three new tracks from "Everything I Thought I Was". These compositions did not resonate with the entire audience, but it is not an indictment of Justin Timberlake. The live renditions were impeccable, affirming Timberlake's transition into the legacy phase of his career. Fortunately, the crowd's enthusiasm was reignited by renditions of classic hits "Cry Me A River," "Let The Groove Get In," and a seamless medley of "Señorita" and "Summer Love."
Justin then made his way to the B Stage for an exhilarating performance of "Suit & Tie," "Pusher Love Girl," and "Say Something." The highlight of the B stage performance was a piano performance of "Until The End Of Time," which was capped off by an audience member successfully proposing to their fiancee. I'll also give Justin credit for the live performance of "Selfish," as the song has taken a while to grow on me. I wish Mr. Timberlake had kept the momentum with his piano skills and added more ballads into a medley.
As the night began to wind down, it was all about high energy, and Justin returned to the main stage. "Can't Stop the Feeling!" brought the audience to its feet and kept them as they sang along to "Rock Your Body" and "SexyBack ."Justin ended his show with a performance of "Mirrors" on a floating stage elevated above the crowd.
As a seasoned concert-goer, it may surprise you that this was my first time experiencing Justin Timberlake live. However, after witnessing his unique blend of authentic musicianship, energetic choreography, and a solid setlist, I can confidently say it won't be my last.
Final Grade: A-